Investors in Azenta, Inc. AZTA need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the Dec 20, 2024 $45 Call had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.
What is Implied Volatility?
Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell-off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.
What do the Analysts Think?
Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for Azenta shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Azenta is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in the Medical Info Systems industry that ranks in the Top 31% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 30 days, no analyst has increased the earnings estimates for the current quarter, while one dropped the estimates. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter from 8 cents per share to 7 cents in that period.
Given the way analysts feel about Azenta right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Oftentimes, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.
Looking to Trade Options?
Check out the simple yet high-powered approach that Zacks Executive VP Kevin Matras has used to close recent double and triple-digit winners. In addition to impressive profit potential, these trades can actually reduce your risk.
Click to see the trades now >>
Check Out These Stocks Before They Report Earnings (Free Report)
A stock can jump +10-20% in a single day after a positive earnings surprise. What if you could get in early on those stocks? It could be the "holy grail" of stock picking for investors.
Zacks' new special report is designed to do exactly that. It reveals 5 promising stocks experts predict will crush earnings estimates and skyrocket in price.
Download Earnings Season Profit Secrets today, absolutely free.Azenta, Inc. (AZTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
